What to coat trailer wheels with to minimise rust?

Keith-i

Keith-i

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I've just had to buy two new wheels for my rib trailer due to the amount of rust that has accumulated over the last 12 years or so. Is there any sensible coating or product I can apply to minimise rust on the new rims? Something like a durable Waxoyl perhaps?
 
Keith-i said:
I've just had to buy two new wheels for my rib trailer due to the amount of rust that has accumulated over the last 12 years or so. Is there any sensible coating or product I can apply to minimise rust on the new rims? Something like a durable Waxoyl perhaps?
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Assuming this is due to salt water dunking and if you want them to last a long while then have them grit blasted then hot dip galvanized. If no galvanising plant on Jersey then there is probably a metal fabricating company that sends batches away to be done that will include your wheels in a batch.

Www.solocoastalsailing.co.uk
 
I did wonder about galvanising but thought the slightly uneven resulting surface might affect the tyre bead from sealing.

I have no problem washing down after each use but even with that they rust quite rapidly.
 
This stuff is expensive but it works. I use it on drilling rigs for lay up, especially on salt sprayed areas. A spray can would go a long way, but the link below sells by the case load. Not sure if they only sell to trade or would sell to public. It leaves behind an opaque, brownish / tan wax film when it sets. You would still have to flush and grease bearings, but on the wheel rim, it would prevent corrosion.

Cortec VpCI 368 | Corshield VpCI 368 | Valdamark Direct

I use ACF50 on my bike, frame, wheels and other areas. It stays on all year, but it can start to wash off. Lower cost option, bit also with good results. I reckon you would have to reapply from time to time. However, my alloy wheels, which are notorious for paint failing and corrosion, still look good after 2 years since last coating.

Corrosion Block - Anti-Corrosion compound, oil and grease
http://www.acf-50.co.uk/newacro/ACF50 Motorcycles_Hints & Tips.pdf
 
After washing well with fresh water I'd give them a coat of ACF50, it will keep the rust at bay. I use it on boat engines, motorbikes, bicycles, does need reapplying regularly (i.e. it washes off in the rain or if dunked like your trailer wheels) but it works well...

edit: BOB beat me to it!!! (y)
 
Keith-i said:
I did wonder about galvanising but thought the slightly uneven resulting surface might affect the tyre bead from sealing.

I have no problem washing down after each use but even with that they rust quite rapidly.
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Yes, you may have to dress off any pips on the bead area before fitting the tyres and also in the centre hole where they locate on the hub, but that's all. The result will be worry free for at least 10 years and probably 20 if you wash too.

Www.solocoastalsailing.co.uk
 
My trailer wheels are nudging 40yo. Still OK I believe. I apply lots of grease liberally around the rim etc every time I remove them for bearing service. messy but does the job. ol'will
 
BlowingOldBoots said:
This stuff is expensive but it works. I use it on drilling rigs for lay up, especially on salt sprayed areas.

Cortec VpCI 368 | Corshield VpCI 368 | Valdamark Direct
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Thanks, that stuff looks interesting and was the kind of thing I was looking for. It's also brought to mind the spray on grease that my outboard mechanic used to protect some of the moving parts on my outboard.

My axle has disc brakes and sealed oil filled bearings so wash down shoudl be fairly easy overall. Just need something to protect the mild steel parts.
 
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